The 63rd edition of the Kenya Schools and Colleges National Drama and Film Festival has commenced in Nakuru at the Lions School, Melvin Jones, and Menengai High School.

Feeder roads leading to the venues are set to be filled with foot traffic, from April 7 to 18.

At mid-morning, junior, primary, secondary, and TVET students begun their performances, already capturing the attention of audiences consisting of students and teachers alike.

When every play is about to start, there are ‘gatemen’ who man the doors with a strict no-entry or leave policy.

I think it is to not allow the students to get distracted as they entertain the audience despite their fight to clench the top positions that will earn them prestigious opportunity of presenting their acts at the Statehouse for the president and further the East African Drama and Dance festivals.

Pupils from across the country deliver powerful performances, bringing stories to life with emotion and intensity.

From attention-grabbing dramas to comedic moments that evoke laughter, the festival has provided a platform for the learners to tactfully bring to life this year’s theme on responsible use of technology: ‘leveraging technology to nurture talent while inculcating national values for socioeconomic prosperity.’

Play directors have gone above and beyond to show off the creativity that went into the acts’ props and costumes as well as their narration.

Away from the festival’s pressure, small businesses are also competing for the attention of students with shiny new objects and most importantly dining areas.

Some of the businesses set up at the 63rd edition of the Kenya Schools and Colleges National Drama and Film Festival that will run from April 7-18.

Photo credit: LELETI JASSOR/MTAA WANGU

They have moved from the town centre and camped at the venue with the hopes of making a kill for the days the competition will be held.

As this goes on, the student’s presence is barely noticeable at the city centre as business moves slowly as usual.

This year, several standout performances have drawn praise for their bold portrayals of complex characters, and Nakuru is yet to experience them, specifically the Butere Girls’ play, whose recent ban was lifted by the court, among other outstanding acts.

The last time Nakuru held the prestigious National Drama Festival was in 2019 the 57th edition of the same.

National drama festival brings Nakuru to life, as small businesses reap big

Author Spotlight

Leleti Jassor